National Thrombosis Week - 5 to 10 May - let's talk clots
We tend to think of health emergencies as visible and immediately identifiable. But thrombosis and its symptoms can be dismissed as just pulling a muscle or straining through exercise. How can you tell if it is something more serious?
Thrombosis occurs when blood clots block your veins or arteries, leading to potentially life-threatening complications if left untreated, and can happen to anyone at any age. In the UK, it is the number one cause of preventable deaths in hospital.
Consultant physician and MSG chair Dr Steve Evans explains here what signs you need to look out for, who is most at risk and how to treat it.
What causes venous thrombosis?
Venous thrombosis, which includes deep vein thrombosis and pulmonary embolism, can be caused by several different factors, including:
- Immobility
- Injury to the leg veins
- Broken bones
- Certain medicines
- Obesity
- Autoimmune disorders
Know your clot risk
Individuals with a history of blood clot in a deep vein, or a history of deep vein thrombosis, should be especially aware of the symptoms and warning signs of venous thrombosis. Other factors include:
- Hormone therapy or birth control pills
- Pregnancy
- Being overweight or obese
- Old age
- Cancer, heart disease, lung disease of Crohn’s disease
What should you be on the lookout for?
Symptoms can present differently depending on the person. The good news is that your body will give you clues when something isn’t right, but the bad news is that the symptoms can often be easy to miss.
Having pain in one leg, particularly on the calf or inner thigh, is a common indicator of thrombosis, as well as swelling in the leg or arm, and chest pain.
The issue with this is that these symptoms are indicators of many different minor or significant conditions or diseases. However, late diagnosis can be life-threatening, so it is important to seek medical advice or support if you do think you’re experiencing thrombosis.
How is it treated?
Blood thinning medications are often used to prevent blood clots from forming or from getting any bigger. Following the surgery, compression socks should be worn to relieve swelling and pain in the legs.
If you have any concerns or suspect you may be experiencing thrombosis, consult your doctor immediately.